School Nutrition Standards Policy Implementation: Economic Impact and the Role of Key Stakeholders

Start Date: June 2006

ID #: 58086

Principal Investigator: Alice Ammerman, DrPH, RD

Organization: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Funding Round: Round 1

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North Carolina passed legislation to implement recommended nutrition standards in schools. A pilot study conducted in 2004-05 in seven school districts (123 elementary schools varying by size, region, and demographics) resulted in substantial revenue loss and resistance from administrators, teachers, parents, and students. We propose an in-depth analysis of the financial impact and implementation barriers among key stakeholders in this pilot as well as in 2 middle schools (average 50% free and reduced lunch, 85% minority) where changes to healthier a la carte items also resulted in substantial revenue loss. This will involve extensive economic analysis and qualitative data collection among stakeholders.

Race/Ethnicity: African American or Black, Latino(a) or Hispanic, Multi-racial/ethnic

Keywords: Competitive foods, Food service, Nutrition standards, School meal programs, Snacks, Vending machines

Age Groups: Elementary-age children (grades K to 5), Young adolescents (grades 6 to 8)

Resource Type: Grant Summary

State: North Carolina

Focus Areas: Pricing & Economics, School & After School

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